march 2023 |
All text by Zorek Richards
unless otherwise noted |
|
March 27, 2023: Christianity Today: Presbyterian School Mourns 6 Dead in Nashville Shooting
Victims include the head of school and the 9-year-old daughter of the church’s lead pastor Mar 27, 2023: Church Leaders: Terrorists Kill 27 Christians in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Fulani herdsmen and other terrorists killed 27 Christians in two attacks this month in Kaduna state, Nigeria, local sources said. Both attacks took place in Zangon Kataf County, where 10 Christians were killed on March 14 in Langson village and 17 slain in Ungwan Wakili village on March 10, residents said. |
| March 26, 2023 |
March 26, 2023:
I, from experience, dont have a lot of good things to say about most mega-churches. They create large congregations of people and enforce tithing and offerings from folks in generally well to do areas . They purposely seek out the wealthy and affluent. They bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars every month...and, of course, are not taxed. For many years I have wondered about Hillsong and how it could be so good and yet seem to be going so well. My thoughts were that when staffs get that big that I suspect there is a lot going on that we dont hear about. Well, as the Bible says, what is done in darkness will be brought to the light. And the last couple years, as an example, Hillsong has literally imploded on itself with the scandals that have come to light.
Today, on top of the other scandals, I read that "nearly 40 churches around the world paid up to $100,000, or 3% of their tithes and offerings, to Hillsong Church annually to be a part of the Hillsong Family network, which a whistleblower has alleged offers access to a global honorarium scheme meant to funnel additional income into the pockets of celebrity pastors through sophisticated means." (Lots of them here across the United States.......interestingly quite a few in Florida).
And they have their dishonest bookkeepers:
"On paper, according to the Hillsong Family relationship agreement..., these churches are paying for "spiritual oversight" and, if necessary, a possibility of assistance with high-level church conflict."
What a horrible witness to the testament of the Gospel!!! The great commission was to go into the world and reach people with the saving word of Jesus Christ....not seek out the weak who dont really know what the Bible is all about, befriend them, start a church and ask for money. I dont think it's just a coincidence that as evangelicals merged with the Republican Party that "grifting" has been steadily increasing. Republicans have been seeking money in the name of "pro life" from evangelicals for several decades now...and have been successful. There was plenty of pro life evangelicals who were ready to give money to help "defeat abortion" because it makes them feel good about doing "something for God."
Ending Roe v Wade did not end it. The same grifters are out there now asking for donations to fight against the people who want the reversal of Roe v Wade reserved.
I, from experience, dont have a lot of good things to say about most mega-churches. They create large congregations of people and enforce tithing and offerings from folks in generally well to do areas . They purposely seek out the wealthy and affluent. They bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars every month...and, of course, are not taxed. For many years I have wondered about Hillsong and how it could be so good and yet seem to be going so well. My thoughts were that when staffs get that big that I suspect there is a lot going on that we dont hear about. Well, as the Bible says, what is done in darkness will be brought to the light. And the last couple years, as an example, Hillsong has literally imploded on itself with the scandals that have come to light.
Today, on top of the other scandals, I read that "nearly 40 churches around the world paid up to $100,000, or 3% of their tithes and offerings, to Hillsong Church annually to be a part of the Hillsong Family network, which a whistleblower has alleged offers access to a global honorarium scheme meant to funnel additional income into the pockets of celebrity pastors through sophisticated means." (Lots of them here across the United States.......interestingly quite a few in Florida).
And they have their dishonest bookkeepers:
"On paper, according to the Hillsong Family relationship agreement..., these churches are paying for "spiritual oversight" and, if necessary, a possibility of assistance with high-level church conflict."
What a horrible witness to the testament of the Gospel!!! The great commission was to go into the world and reach people with the saving word of Jesus Christ....not seek out the weak who dont really know what the Bible is all about, befriend them, start a church and ask for money. I dont think it's just a coincidence that as evangelicals merged with the Republican Party that "grifting" has been steadily increasing. Republicans have been seeking money in the name of "pro life" from evangelicals for several decades now...and have been successful. There was plenty of pro life evangelicals who were ready to give money to help "defeat abortion" because it makes them feel good about doing "something for God."
Ending Roe v Wade did not end it. The same grifters are out there now asking for donations to fight against the people who want the reversal of Roe v Wade reserved.
| March 24, 2023 |
March 24, 2023: Religion Unplugged: On The Front Lines: In War-Torn Kherson, Church Is A Symbol Of Hope And Resilience
“We didn’t plan to live like this, but after waking up to the war, we started evacuating people from our city. The volunteer work continues since then,” says Stanislav Syniy, while driving a van to his native Kherson in the south of Ukraine.
“We didn’t plan to live like this, but after waking up to the war, we started evacuating people from our city. The volunteer work continues since then,” says Stanislav Syniy, while driving a van to his native Kherson in the south of Ukraine.
Mar 24, 2023: Baptist News Global: Advocates for constitutional ban on female ‘pastors’ in SBC publish a list of 170 churches they deem in violation
A proposed constitutional amendment to bar any Southern Baptist Convention church from giving a woman the title “pastor” gained steam — and opposition — this week with publication of a list of 170 SBC churches said to have women serving as “pastors.”
A proposed constitutional amendment to bar any Southern Baptist Convention church from giving a woman the title “pastor” gained steam — and opposition — this week with publication of a list of 170 SBC churches said to have women serving as “pastors.”
March 24, 2023: Christian Post: Docs show churches paid up to $100K to be part of Hillsong Family, an alleged honorarium scheme
Nearly 40 churches around the world paid up to $100,000, or 3% of their tithes and offerings, to Hillsong Church annually to be a part of the Hillsong Family network, which a whistleblower has alleged offers access to a global honorarium scheme meant to funnel additional income into the pockets of celebrity pastors through sophisticated means.
Nearly 40 churches around the world paid up to $100,000, or 3% of their tithes and offerings, to Hillsong Church annually to be a part of the Hillsong Family network, which a whistleblower has alleged offers access to a global honorarium scheme meant to funnel additional income into the pockets of celebrity pastors through sophisticated means.
Mar 24, 2023: Premier Christianity: I've just been dismissed by a Christian college for tweets on homosexuality – if I wasn’t safe, no one is
Dr Aaron Edwards was recently dismissed from Cliff College – the Methodist Bible college where he worked as a lecturer – after pro-LGBT advocates attacked him over his views on sexuality. Here he explains why his sacking should be a concern for all Christians
Dr Aaron Edwards was recently dismissed from Cliff College – the Methodist Bible college where he worked as a lecturer – after pro-LGBT advocates attacked him over his views on sexuality. Here he explains why his sacking should be a concern for all Christians
| March 23, 2023 |
March 23, 2023: Religion Unplugged: Is Pope Francis ‘The Only One Who Can Make A Difference’ In Uganda’s Anti-LGBTQ Bills?
The Episcopal priest who first documented links between U.S. evangelicals and an anti-gay bill in Uganda, the Rev. Kapya Kaoma, says that the “only person who can make a difference now in Africa is Pope Francis.”
The Episcopal priest who first documented links between U.S. evangelicals and an anti-gay bill in Uganda, the Rev. Kapya Kaoma, says that the “only person who can make a difference now in Africa is Pope Francis.”
Mar 23, 2023: Church Leaders: Tennessee Library Director Fired for ‘Negative Pushback’ During Kirk Cameron Book Reading
On March 15, Hendersonville Public Library director Allan Morales was terminated after a 4-3 vote by the Sumner County Library Board due to the “unkind pushback” he allegedly demonstrated during Kirk Cameron’s children’s book reading.
On March 15, Hendersonville Public Library director Allan Morales was terminated after a 4-3 vote by the Sumner County Library Board due to the “unkind pushback” he allegedly demonstrated during Kirk Cameron’s children’s book reading.
| March 22, 2023 |
Mar 22, 2023: Church Leaders: Nick Hall on Asbury, Gen Z and Why He Believes ‘God Is Doing Something’
“People would stand up in the middle of Asbury. They would say, ‘Hey, if you’re here, you need to repent.’ Somebody stood up and said, ‘I’m guilty of adultery and I’m stuck in my sin.’ And the whole room would say, ‘The blood of Jesus forgives you.’ And then somebody else would stand up and say, ‘I’m addicted to porn or I have hate in my heart’ or whatever—’The blood of Jesus forgives you.’”
“People would stand up in the middle of Asbury. They would say, ‘Hey, if you’re here, you need to repent.’ Somebody stood up and said, ‘I’m guilty of adultery and I’m stuck in my sin.’ And the whole room would say, ‘The blood of Jesus forgives you.’ And then somebody else would stand up and say, ‘I’m addicted to porn or I have hate in my heart’ or whatever—’The blood of Jesus forgives you.’”
Mar 22, 2023: God TV: TOBYMAC CONFESSES HE QUIT READING THE BIBLE AFTER SON DIED, BUT GOD DREW HIM BACK
The Grammy Award-winning Christian artist has been reading the whole Bible when his 21-year-old son died in 2019. TobyMac can’t finish reading it after that tragedy. He has stopped reading the Bible
The Grammy Award-winning Christian artist has been reading the whole Bible when his 21-year-old son died in 2019. TobyMac can’t finish reading it after that tragedy. He has stopped reading the Bible
| March 21, 2023 |
| March 19, 2023 |
March 19, 2023: Foreign Policy: How U.S. Evangelicals Helped Homophobia Flourish in Africa
Anti-gay sentiment had previously existed on the continent, but white American religious groups have given it a boost.
Anti-gay sentiment had previously existed on the continent, but white American religious groups have given it a boost.
Mar 19, 2023: Washington Post: Why white Christian nationalists are in such a panic
You might find it strange that a large segment of the Republican base thinks Whites are the true victims of racism and that Christians are under attack. After all, America’s biggest racial group is still Whites; the most common religious affiliation remains Christianity. Whites and Christians dominate elected office at all levels, the judiciary and corporate America. What’s the problem?
You might find it strange that a large segment of the Republican base thinks Whites are the true victims of racism and that Christians are under attack. After all, America’s biggest racial group is still Whites; the most common religious affiliation remains Christianity. Whites and Christians dominate elected office at all levels, the judiciary and corporate America. What’s the problem?
| March 17, 2023 |
Mar 17, 2023: Crossway: How a Husband Shows Honor to His Wife as the “Weaker Vessel”
Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered. --1 Peter 3:7
Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered. --1 Peter 3:7
| March 15, 2023 |
Mar 15, 2023: Premier Christianity: Rick Warren: Why I changed my mind on women in church leadership
The author of The Purpose Driven Life reveals the Bible verses that convinced him to ordain female leaders at Saddleback church
The author of The Purpose Driven Life reveals the Bible verses that convinced him to ordain female leaders at Saddleback church
March 15,2023: New York Post: Jerry Falwell Jr. sues Liberty University, claims school owes him $8.5M in retirement funds
Former Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. is suing the Lynchburg, Virginia, college over $8.5 million in retirement benefits that he says the school owes him.
Falwell Jr. left Liberty in August 2020 after Giancarlo Granda, a young Miami pool boy who later became the Falwell family’s business partner, said he had a years-long sexual relationship with Falwell Jr.’s wife, Becki Falwell, and that the former school president would participate as a voyeur, scandalizing the private evangelical Christian college community that Falwell once served.
Former Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. is suing the Lynchburg, Virginia, college over $8.5 million in retirement benefits that he says the school owes him.
Falwell Jr. left Liberty in August 2020 after Giancarlo Granda, a young Miami pool boy who later became the Falwell family’s business partner, said he had a years-long sexual relationship with Falwell Jr.’s wife, Becki Falwell, and that the former school president would participate as a voyeur, scandalizing the private evangelical Christian college community that Falwell once served.
March 15, 2023: Salt Lake Tribune: In north Idaho, religious and secular activists work to fight Christian nationalism
When Josiah Mannion, a photographer and activist representing the newly formed Community Library Network Alliance, rose to speak in defense of the library, he cast his objections in terms of Christian nationalism.
When Josiah Mannion, a photographer and activist representing the newly formed Community Library Network Alliance, rose to speak in defense of the library, he cast his objections in terms of Christian nationalism.
| March 14, 2023 |
Mar 14, 2023: Premier Christian: Tim Keller calls for prayer as cancer update reveals new tumours
Christian pastor and theologian Tim Keller has shared an update on his battle with cancer, asking people to pray after doctors revealed new tumours have been found.
The renowned apologist was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May 2020, aged 69 and has undergone numerous rounds of chemotherapy as well as immunotherapy treatment. In April, Keller will undergo a second round of immunotherapy to target newly developed tumours.
Christian pastor and theologian Tim Keller has shared an update on his battle with cancer, asking people to pray after doctors revealed new tumours have been found.
The renowned apologist was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May 2020, aged 69 and has undergone numerous rounds of chemotherapy as well as immunotherapy treatment. In April, Keller will undergo a second round of immunotherapy to target newly developed tumours.
March 14, 2023: Religion Dispatches: AR-15 LAPEL PINS ARE MORE THAN POLITICAL PROVOCATION — THEY’RE SYMBOLS OF THE VIOLENCE AT THE HEART OF WHITE CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM
Violence has always been at the center of White Christian nationalism: the vow to impose order on those perceived as un-American, if need be with force, either by the police or by wielding a gun themselves. And while the absolute right to gun ownership has been a core belief on the American Right since at least the Reagan years, the allegiance of today’s GOP to guns has never been so brazen or flamboyant. The AR-15—the gun with which a disproportionate number of mass shootings in the US are committed—has become a central part of White Christian nationalist iconography, as well as a stark expression of the violent ideology behind it. On January 6, 2021 a banner with the slogan “God Guns and Guts Made in America, Let’s Keep all Three,” was carried by insurrectionists storming the Capitol.
Violence has always been at the center of White Christian nationalism: the vow to impose order on those perceived as un-American, if need be with force, either by the police or by wielding a gun themselves. And while the absolute right to gun ownership has been a core belief on the American Right since at least the Reagan years, the allegiance of today’s GOP to guns has never been so brazen or flamboyant. The AR-15—the gun with which a disproportionate number of mass shootings in the US are committed—has become a central part of White Christian nationalist iconography, as well as a stark expression of the violent ideology behind it. On January 6, 2021 a banner with the slogan “God Guns and Guts Made in America, Let’s Keep all Three,” was carried by insurrectionists storming the Capitol.
| March 13, 2023 |
|
Mar 13, 2023: Christian World Review: Materialism and The American Soul
One of the most impactful paradigm shifts I have ever lived through would undoubtedly have to have been during university. I went to a small Christian School that was very focused on the Bible and mission work at large. Throughout my first year of study, I felt as if I was in the center of God’s strategy room, surrounded by giants of the faith. At the time, I took whatever they said as the Gospel truth. Consequently, you may be able to imagine my surprise and confusion when I overheard the school’s president talking about the best way to keep homeless people off the property. |
Materialism has even wormed its way into the culture of Christianity in the States at large. The most in-your-face example is undoubtedly the unreasonable prominence of the prosperity gospel. Another good example is the way Christmas is generally celebrated. Although the holiday is about the birth of Christ, the big focus of December 25 is typically the things we bought each other, even in Christian households. Culturally, it’s more of a time to give one another the things we’ve wanted all year; then, a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus. In its more subtle forms, it reveals itself in the way wealth is often associated with church position. For example, have you ever seen a church leader (elder, priest, deacon, or pastor) whose lifestyle is below their community’s standard of living? Even in poorer neighborhoods, they tend to be near the top. After all, no matter how little people possess, having a nearly homeless religious leader would just be unbecoming. 3.13.23 |
Mar 13, 2023: New York Post: Rainn Wilson calls out anti-Christian bias in Hollywood after ‘Last of Us’ episode: I knew he was a ‘villain’
Actor Rainn Wilson criticized the anti-Christian bias in Hollywood on Saturday after the latest example from the HBO series “The Last of Us.”
From his Twitter account, the former “The Office” cast member called out a recent episode of the series for featuring a villainous character using Bible verses in what he suggested was a predictable formula.
Actor Rainn Wilson criticized the anti-Christian bias in Hollywood on Saturday after the latest example from the HBO series “The Last of Us.”
From his Twitter account, the former “The Office” cast member called out a recent episode of the series for featuring a villainous character using Bible verses in what he suggested was a predictable formula.
| March 12, 2023 |
Mar 12, 2023: Daily Mail: When good pastors go bad: From disgraced Carl Lentz's multiple affairs in Hillsong scandal to NYC's 'bling bishop', these are the biggest falls from grace
- Pastors are often the pillars of their communities - until they behave badly
- Whether it's steamy affairs, alleged involvement in scams or sexual misconduct, church leaders damage institutions when they fail to practice what they preach
- We look at the pastors who are disgraced or embroiled in damaging allegations
| March 11, 2023 |
Mar 11, 2023: Faith Tap: Christian Artists Descend on US Capitol, Fill Rotunda with Worship, Prayer - 7 Members of Congress Join Them
It would seem that there’s a stirring in the hearts and minds and spirits of some Christians.
“Let Us Worship” and Turning Point USA Faith are two faith-based movements with a heart for worship, prayer and revival. They have partnered with each other and are making their way around the nation to the various state Capitols, as well as Washington DC to inspire others in prayer for revival.
It would seem that there’s a stirring in the hearts and minds and spirits of some Christians.
“Let Us Worship” and Turning Point USA Faith are two faith-based movements with a heart for worship, prayer and revival. They have partnered with each other and are making their way around the nation to the various state Capitols, as well as Washington DC to inspire others in prayer for revival.
March 11, 2023: Arizona Daily Sun: Flagstaff City Council adopts resolution supporting abortion access
Many commenters who spoke against the resolution cited religion, specifically Christianity, as their reason for opposing abortion, quoting Bible verses and prayers and using religious language.
Many commenters who spoke against the resolution cited religion, specifically Christianity, as their reason for opposing abortion, quoting Bible verses and prayers and using religious language.
| March 10, 2023 |
March 10, 2023: Baptist News Global: Griffen and Ravitch warn Floridians of dangers of DeSantis’ attack on public education
Baptist minister and retired Arkansas judge Wendell Griffen stood before an audience of faith leaders and education advocates in Tallahassee, Fla., March 9, pointed to his lapel and dared Gov. Ron DeSantis to have him apprehended for being politically and racially aware.
Baptist minister and retired Arkansas judge Wendell Griffen stood before an audience of faith leaders and education advocates in Tallahassee, Fla., March 9, pointed to his lapel and dared Gov. Ron DeSantis to have him apprehended for being politically and racially aware.
March 10, 2023: Religion News: ‘Spiritual exemplars’ change the media narrative about religion
Media stories about religion often focus on corruption in religious institutions, politicians’ alliances with conservative Christians and institutional abuses of power. These important stories need to be reported. But there is another dimension to religion that makes an impact on our society: Religious values inspire people to confront difficult social problems, their beliefs help them reframe issues in hopeful and life-affirming ways and their spiritual practices sustain them in their struggles.
Media stories about religion often focus on corruption in religious institutions, politicians’ alliances with conservative Christians and institutional abuses of power. These important stories need to be reported. But there is another dimension to religion that makes an impact on our society: Religious values inspire people to confront difficult social problems, their beliefs help them reframe issues in hopeful and life-affirming ways and their spiritual practices sustain them in their struggles.
|
Mar 10, 2023: Axios: Religious leaders experiment with ChatGPT sermons
Religious leaders are dabbling in ChatGPT for sermon writing, and largely reaching the same conclusion: It's great for plucking Bible verses and concocting nice-sounding sentiments but lacks the human warmth that congregants crave. Why it matters: As scarily good generative artificial intelligence tools start to disrupt all manner of professions, men and women of the cloth are pondering how eerily close it can come to projecting a human — or divine — soul. |
|
|
March 10, 2023: Religion News: For FBI legend J. Edgar Hoover, Christian nationalism was the gospel truth, argues new book
In 'The Gospel of J. Edgar Hoover,' Stanford professor Lerone Martin details how the longtime FBI director shaped the belief in America as a Christian nation. |
"American conservatives were always enamored with the idea of either saving Russia from itself or, now, using Russia to save themselves," Riccardi-Swartz says. Riccardi-Swartz says Putin's attempt to brand himself as a protector of "traditional values" and Russian Christians, resulting in the resurgence of the Russian Orthodox Church, has also helped remake Russia into a symbol for Christian nationalists. To them, it's no longer an atheistic communist country; it's a place where Christians have religious freedom, according to Riccardi-Swartz. "That seems very appealing to conservative Christians in the United States who feel our liberal democracy is infringing on their religious beliefs," Riccardi-Swartz says. 3.10.23 |
| March 9, 2023 |
March 9, 2023: Slate: Which Religion Counts in America
A brief in a case out of Indiana shows exactly how fundamentalist Christian beliefs trump everything else in the courts these days.
A brief in a case out of Indiana shows exactly how fundamentalist Christian beliefs trump everything else in the courts these days.
March 9, 2023: Christian Post: 'Full of surprises': Understanding stunning moments, realities at the heart of the Asbury revival
Americans are still discussing, dissecting and exploring the impact of the massive revivals that unfolded last month at Asbury University and other American campuses.
Christian Post reporter Michael Gryboski joined the most recent episode of “The Inside Story” to give the full scoop on what unfolded, why it matters — and to explain why these spiritual moments and movements were filled with so many surprises.
Americans are still discussing, dissecting and exploring the impact of the massive revivals that unfolded last month at Asbury University and other American campuses.
Christian Post reporter Michael Gryboski joined the most recent episode of “The Inside Story” to give the full scoop on what unfolded, why it matters — and to explain why these spiritual moments and movements were filled with so many surprises.
Mar 9, 2023: Baptist Press: Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention names interim executive-director
The executive board of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention (HPBC) announced March 8 that John Endriss will serve as interim executive director during the continued search for a long-term candidate. Endriss currently serves as pastor of Engage Church in Hilo and is president of the HPBC executive board.
The executive board of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention (HPBC) announced March 8 that John Endriss will serve as interim executive director during the continued search for a long-term candidate. Endriss currently serves as pastor of Engage Church in Hilo and is president of the HPBC executive board.
March 9, 2023: Baptist Press: WEEK OF PRAYER: Romanian planter starts multicultural church in diverse area of New York City
In some ways, New York City’s Maranatha Baptist Church wasn’t much different from thousands of other churches throughout North America struggling to engage its community.
Planted 25 years ago to reach the growing Romanian population in the surrounding Ridgewood neighborhood, Maranatha initially reached their Romanian neighbors faithfully, growing steadily along the way.
In some ways, New York City’s Maranatha Baptist Church wasn’t much different from thousands of other churches throughout North America struggling to engage its community.
Planted 25 years ago to reach the growing Romanian population in the surrounding Ridgewood neighborhood, Maranatha initially reached their Romanian neighbors faithfully, growing steadily along the way.
| March 8, 2023 |
March 8, 2023: Baptist News Global: Tucker Carlson takes on Russell Moore, Beth Moore, Tim Keller and David French
It’s not just “liberals” who draw Tucker Carlson’s scorn these days. Even some stalwarts of evangelical conservativism are too “woke” to please the acerbic Fox News personality.
It’s not just “liberals” who draw Tucker Carlson’s scorn these days. Even some stalwarts of evangelical conservativism are too “woke” to please the acerbic Fox News personality.
March 8, 2023: Religion Dispatches: SHOULD WE EXPECT TO SEE A RISE IN CHRISTIAN NATIONALIST VIOLENCE IN THE US?
Troubling new details regarding the violent propensity of Christian nationalism have been revealed by a new survey on American Christian nationalism released last month. According to the PRRI/Brookings Institution data, adherents of Christian nationalism are almost seven times as likely as those who reject it to support political violence. A stunning 40 percent of Christian nationalism supporters believe that “true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country.”
Troubling new details regarding the violent propensity of Christian nationalism have been revealed by a new survey on American Christian nationalism released last month. According to the PRRI/Brookings Institution data, adherents of Christian nationalism are almost seven times as likely as those who reject it to support political violence. A stunning 40 percent of Christian nationalism supporters believe that “true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country.”
March 8, 2023: Northeastern Global News: Christian nationalists are enamored with Putin, even if they oppose Russia, new research from Northeastern professor says
Russian President Vladimir Putin has found support in an unlikely place: the U.S.
Specifically, Christian nationalists, a subsection of America’s religious right, have flocked to the country’s autocratic leader, according to new research from a team of social scientists, including Sarah Riccardi-Swartz, an assistant professor of religion and anthropology at Northeastern University.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has found support in an unlikely place: the U.S.
Specifically, Christian nationalists, a subsection of America’s religious right, have flocked to the country’s autocratic leader, according to new research from a team of social scientists, including Sarah Riccardi-Swartz, an assistant professor of religion and anthropology at Northeastern University.
Mar 8, 2023: Christian Post: 'Orwellian': Street preacher appeals conviction for 'misgendering' man who identifies as a woman
A British Christian street preacher who was prosecuted and reported to counter-terrorism for alleged “misgendering” by refusing to say a man is a woman is appealing his conviction. He has been sharing the Bible’s message that we have all sinned by disobeying God’s laws for 15 years.
A British Christian street preacher who was prosecuted and reported to counter-terrorism for alleged “misgendering” by refusing to say a man is a woman is appealing his conviction. He has been sharing the Bible’s message that we have all sinned by disobeying God’s laws for 15 years.
| March 7, 2023 |
Mar 7, 2023: Christian Post: Frank Griswold, former head of Episcopal Church, dies at age 85
The Rt. Rev. Frank T. Griswold III, who served as presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church and was known for his ecumenical work with Protestants and Catholics, died at age 85.
Griswold died on Sunday in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, according to a statement by The Episcopal Church. He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Phoebe Wetzel Griswold, two daughters and three grandchildren
The Rt. Rev. Frank T. Griswold III, who served as presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church and was known for his ecumenical work with Protestants and Catholics, died at age 85.
Griswold died on Sunday in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, according to a statement by The Episcopal Church. He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Phoebe Wetzel Griswold, two daughters and three grandchildren
| March 6, 2023 |
March 6, 2023: AZ Central: School board targets Christian student teachers to protect LGBTQ students
The Washington Elementary School District school board has a message for education majors who attend Arizona Christian University:
You aren’t welcome here.
The Washington Elementary School District school board has a message for education majors who attend Arizona Christian University:
You aren’t welcome here.
| March 4, 2023 |
March 4, 2023: Christian Post: The Gospel Coalition takes down 'Sex Won't Save You' article; Rick Warren calls for apology
The Gospel Coalition faced calls for an apology Friday over a now-deleted post on its website in which the author discusses salvation and the Church in the context of sexual intercourse that some critics say approaches erotic literature.
Authored by Arizona Pastor Josh Butler, the article published on Wednesday, originally titled "Sex Won’t Save You (But It Points to the One Who Will)," is an excerpt from Butler’s book, Beautiful Union released last month.
The Gospel Coalition faced calls for an apology Friday over a now-deleted post on its website in which the author discusses salvation and the Church in the context of sexual intercourse that some critics say approaches erotic literature.
Authored by Arizona Pastor Josh Butler, the article published on Wednesday, originally titled "Sex Won’t Save You (But It Points to the One Who Will)," is an excerpt from Butler’s book, Beautiful Union released last month.
| March 3, 2023 |
|
March 3, 2023: Blue Ridge Christian News: ‘In God We Trust’ Would be Placed in N.C. Legislative Chambers Under New Bill
A North Carolina legislator introduced a bill this week that would require the national motto “In God We Trust” to be placed prominently in both legislative chambers, saying it would serve as a “constant reminder” that legislators are serving God in their elected roles. |
“North Carolina is one state, and part of one nation under God,” Moss said in a statement. “Having our national motto, ‘In God We Trust,’ in the center of the House Chamber will serve as a constant reminder that with every vote we take, we do as an act of service to the Lord our God and to help advance His Kingdom in our elected capacity — and I believe strongly that this legislation will help retain our religious founding and our Nation’s identity.” |
March 3, 2023: Daily Athenian: Nashville Black clergy group could file lawsuit against the state if Metro Council cut
A prominent group representing Nashville’s black clergy delivered a letter Friday asking state Republican leaders to halt their efforts to shrink the size of the Metro Council and other proposals targeting the city.
A prominent group representing Nashville’s black clergy delivered a letter Friday asking state Republican leaders to halt their efforts to shrink the size of the Metro Council and other proposals targeting the city.
|
March 3, 2023: The Pathway: ERLC’s Leatherwood interviews former MBC president about racial reconciliation
The Southern Baptist Convention’s (SBC) Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) recently released a video featuring Missouri Baptist pastor Jon Nelson, immediate past president of the Missouri Baptist Convention (MBC). |
|
| March 2, 2023 |
March 2, 2023: Southern Ohio Christian Voice: Ukraine Christians Are On The Rise Amid War
Arecent survey found that the number of Christians in Ukraine increased during the war. It’s been a year since Russian forces invaded Ukraine, but in the middle of the destruction, more Ukrainians cling to Jesus Christ as a source of hope and salvation.
According to the data from the Razkumov Center, which was published in the Religious Information Service for Ukraine (RISU), 74.1% identified themselves as Christians in 2022 compared to 67.8% in 2021. At the same time, the number of non-believers and convinced atheists decreased—from 13% to 12.2%.
Arecent survey found that the number of Christians in Ukraine increased during the war. It’s been a year since Russian forces invaded Ukraine, but in the middle of the destruction, more Ukrainians cling to Jesus Christ as a source of hope and salvation.
According to the data from the Razkumov Center, which was published in the Religious Information Service for Ukraine (RISU), 74.1% identified themselves as Christians in 2022 compared to 67.8% in 2021. At the same time, the number of non-believers and convinced atheists decreased—from 13% to 12.2%.
Mar 2, 2023: Keene Sentinel: Reader Opinion: Why are NH taxes paying for Christian schools?, by Susan Hocking
Once again, New Hampshire is working on funding education. Once again, vouchers are in the equation. Common sense would tell you that the request for private schools would be less if public schools were better. Common sense would also tell you that public money should not pay for religious schools. Now it’s gotten to the point that they want the N.H. Constitution changed to allow tax dollars to religious schools.
Once again, New Hampshire is working on funding education. Once again, vouchers are in the equation. Common sense would tell you that the request for private schools would be less if public schools were better. Common sense would also tell you that public money should not pay for religious schools. Now it’s gotten to the point that they want the N.H. Constitution changed to allow tax dollars to religious schools.
|
Mar 2, 2023: Baptist News Global: Why aren’t we talking about the theology that drives white Christian nationalism?
Poll after poll and webinar after webinar lays out the data on white Christian nationalism. The facts of this threat to both democracy and faith are well-documented. |
As a historian, she said, “this is not ultimately a story of politics hijacking religion. … We can make claims about you got Christianity wrong, but people who think they’re Christians, who claim the Christian faith, are from the grassroots up inculcating this, articulating this, and reinforcing it.” |
March 2, 2023: Christian Post: ‘A ripple effect from Asbury’: Secular universities now seeing revival gatherings on their campuses
As the Asbury revival movement continues to influence Christian universities, churches and secondary schools, some secular institutions of higher learning are also seeing students gather on their campuses to hold worship gatherings.
Students at Western Kentucky University of Bowling Green have been holding gatherings, including one last week that was attended by a few hundred people on the main lawn of the campus to worship and pray together and share their testimonies.
As the Asbury revival movement continues to influence Christian universities, churches and secondary schools, some secular institutions of higher learning are also seeing students gather on their campuses to hold worship gatherings.
Students at Western Kentucky University of Bowling Green have been holding gatherings, including one last week that was attended by a few hundred people on the main lawn of the campus to worship and pray together and share their testimonies.
| March 1, 2023 |
March 1, 2023: ABC News: Christian school that embraced the LGBTQ community is forced to close its doors
A conflict over what it means to be Christian is forcing a school in Kansas City, Missouri, to close.
Urban Christian Academy is a private, K-8 school with an enrollment of 100 that describes itself as providing "a tuition-free, high-quality, Christ-centered education for low-income students."
A conflict over what it means to be Christian is forcing a school in Kansas City, Missouri, to close.
Urban Christian Academy is a private, K-8 school with an enrollment of 100 that describes itself as providing "a tuition-free, high-quality, Christ-centered education for low-income students."
March 1, 2023: Network Lobby for Catholic Social Justice: We Must Repent From Christian Nationalism
God says to Abram in the First Reading this Sunday, “I will make of you a great nation.” Way too many people take those words to heart and twist them. For Christian nationalists, a great nation means a place that is made for and ruled by white Christians. As we saw in Charlottesville, on January 6, 2021, and elsewhere, this rule is meant to be a violent one. As Robert P. Jones’s research reveals, “White Americans who agree that ‘God intended America to be a promised land for European Christians’ are four times as likely as those who disagree with that statement to believe that ‘true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country.’” And violence can be much more subtle than tiki torches, angry mobs overtaking the Capitol building, or vandalism at synagogues. Erasing Black history, banning books in school libraries, and denying gender-affirming care for transgender youth are all forms of violence. We must remain vigilant to these forms of violence, and, as God is described in the Psalm, “love justice and right.”
God says to Abram in the First Reading this Sunday, “I will make of you a great nation.” Way too many people take those words to heart and twist them. For Christian nationalists, a great nation means a place that is made for and ruled by white Christians. As we saw in Charlottesville, on January 6, 2021, and elsewhere, this rule is meant to be a violent one. As Robert P. Jones’s research reveals, “White Americans who agree that ‘God intended America to be a promised land for European Christians’ are four times as likely as those who disagree with that statement to believe that ‘true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country.’” And violence can be much more subtle than tiki torches, angry mobs overtaking the Capitol building, or vandalism at synagogues. Erasing Black history, banning books in school libraries, and denying gender-affirming care for transgender youth are all forms of violence. We must remain vigilant to these forms of violence, and, as God is described in the Psalm, “love justice and right.”
March 1, 2023:
Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
-sexually immoral
- idolaters
-adulterers
-men who practice homosexuality
-thieves
-greedy
-drunkards
-revilers
-swindlers
This list of things Paul said would not inherit the kingdom of God does not place one sin as being worse than another one. First, I am not endorsing any of these things. I am approaching this with a renewed perspective that if a political authority condemns one through attempts to legislate morality he or they have not created a more "godly" society or furthered a theocratic society because such an effort under the guise of "Christianity" would be far more reaching.
"Homosexuality" (again, I am not endorsing) kind of seems like an easy target when there are 8 other things that are on Paul's list that would be required to have the same attention if any of them are addressed in any legislative process which wishes to create a theocratic government.
Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
-sexually immoral
- idolaters
-adulterers
-men who practice homosexuality
-thieves
-greedy
-drunkards
-revilers
-swindlers
This list of things Paul said would not inherit the kingdom of God does not place one sin as being worse than another one. First, I am not endorsing any of these things. I am approaching this with a renewed perspective that if a political authority condemns one through attempts to legislate morality he or they have not created a more "godly" society or furthered a theocratic society because such an effort under the guise of "Christianity" would be far more reaching.
"Homosexuality" (again, I am not endorsing) kind of seems like an easy target when there are 8 other things that are on Paul's list that would be required to have the same attention if any of them are addressed in any legislative process which wishes to create a theocratic government.
